Bio-Behavioral and Community Science Core

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT: Bio-Behavioral and Community Science Core Since 2014, the Bio-Behavioral and Community Science Core has provided consultations and other support to CFAR members for the design of research studies that utilize state-of-the-art methodologies to develop interventions to limit HIV transmission, and increase serostatus awareness, engagement in care, and medication adherence, while identifying and overcoming challenges that impact the achievement of these goals. In the past grant cycle, the work of this Core has resulted in 10 HU CFAR Developmental awards and 30 NIH K- or R-series awards, and multiple inter-CFAR collaborations during the current funding period. The Core has played a major role in developing the following HU CFAR Scientific Working Groups: Substance Use and HIV, Adolescence and HIV, HIV and Aging, and Reproductive Health for HIV-Affected Populations. This Core has also been increasingly focused on community engagement, and its leadership is dedicated to engaging affected communities in the research process and to engaging all key stakeholders about the need for integration of bio-behavioral, social, and community-based research in HIV treatment, prevention, cure, and vaccine development. Finally, the increased demand for consultations by this Core indicates a greater interest in integrating this research.